Resources & Upcoming Deadlines for Library Staff

 

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October 15, 2025

     
     

Resources & Upcoming Deadlines

     
     
ODL Programming and Resources header Oct 25

 

 

AI Showcase: Using Digital Tools

to Build Stronger Communities

Libraries are teaming up to expand access to AI tools. Whether it's connecting teachers with time-saving AI solutions or guiding research projects, these trusted digital navigators help Oklahomans prepare for a tech-driven world.

 

Libraries continue to broaden digital horizons for their communities. Support like this is in demand! Explore two ways to meet local needs while promoting your library's role in workforce development and other high value fields.

    

 

 

 

 

National AI Challenge

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is excited to share a new and exciting opportunity—the Presidential AI Challenge! The challenge invites teams of educators and K-12 students to solve real-world problems with AI tools for a chance to showcase their creativity at a national level.

 

Libraries lead the way in AI-powered problem solving. Staff members have a unique chance to get involved as educators, promote the challenge, and offer space where community members can join in. To spread the word, download promotional items from IMLS. Visit the website to get started.

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

Grow with Google's AI Essentials Course

The State of Oklahoma partnered with Google to make this exciting 10-hour course available at no cost! It serves as an introduction to AI, outlining how the technology can be used responsibly to save time at work. Library staff and customers alike can take advantage of the training.

 

Not only that, but libraries ensure this opportunity can be accessed across the state. Help customers build a digital tool-kit with fun, hands-on projects. Visit our website to learn more and build public interest with this promo kit.

 

 

   

 

    

 

 

 

 

 

Take the Stress Out of E-Rate Filing

Boost your library's connectivity with the latest E-Rate updates! Take advantage of expert support and start the filing process for 2026 with confidence.

 

Does your library need to submit a Form 470 Category 1 application? Check out this E-Rate Process Flyer for a beginner-friendly overview—and next steps! For a complete walkthrough of the E-Rate filing process, visit our website. Email Rachel Walker at rachel.walker@libraries.ok.gov with any questions.

 

 

 

 

 

Free Summer Reading Resources

Thanks to a partnership between ODL and the Collaborative Summer Library Program (CSLP), Oklahoma libraries can access free Summer Reading materials. Preview everything from posters to prizes in the CSLP 2026 Product Catalog!

Many of these resources will be available at no cost through LSTA funding from IMLS. It's easy to get started—just fill out the request form, and ODL will do the rest! 

 

 
 

 

PLA National Survey: Your Voice Matters

This year's Public Library Services for Strong Communities Survey is open! Share feedback on a national level with this great opportunity from the Public Library Association (PLA). The survey will explore ways our field has evolved in 2025—from library programming to local partnerships.

 

The deadline for entries is December 13, 2025. Take a moment and join the conversation about supporting libraries as they uplift communities. Participants will also be entered in a drawing for exciting prizes. Learn how to get started by visiting the webpage or reading the press release from ALA. Email plabenchmark@ala.org with any questions!

 
 


 

 

 

ODL Professional Development header - Oct

 

 

Library Pulse Training Series

Get excited for the first webinar in a new series designed to make program planning easy! "Get Rolling with RPGs at Your Library," will share tips and strategies on engaging teen customers with popular tabletop games like D&D.

 

Mark your calendars for November 6 at 1 p.m. and register below to get started. For support, email odl.education@libraries.ok.gov.

 

 

 

 

 

October Training Spotlight

These free, on-demand webinars offer a deep dive into library policies! Paige Harkins at odl.education@libraries.ok.gov is happy to answer any questions.

 

 
 

Creating and Implementing Library Policies (NCompass Live)

Craft policies that fit your library’s mission statement, prove easier to review and revise, and positively impact services when put into practice.

 

 

Fortifying Your Library Through Policy (Niche Academy)

Strong policy is one of the best ways to protect library staff, prevent difficulties, and keep inevitable issues from escalating too far. Don't miss this course on everything from effective revisions to staff training!

 

 

LiFT: Introduction to Collection Policies (WebJunction)

In the second course of LiFT's Collection Management series, learn how policies actualize a library's vision. You’ll also learn how collection policies and benchmarks support staff in managing key, day-to-day operations. 

 



Ryan Dowd Homeless Training Academy: Be prepared to serve your library community and unhoused customers with two essential trainings.

 

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Questions? Email info@libraries.ok.gov.